For those with depression and related illness psychotherapy is almost always indicated, and medications can be helpful, but a broad-based approach to lifestyle, nutrition, social support, and underlying physiology may spell the difference between "better" and "well."

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation -- A cutting edge, non-drug approach to depression, The NeuroStar device (NeuroStar TMS) , cleared by the FDA in 2008, provides a safe, outpatient treatment that doesn't cause significant side effects -- a great alternative to the medications that often leave people feeling emotionally numb and physically uncomfortable. We are seeing impressive results and encourage anyone seeking an alternative or augmentation to current therapies to call for a consultation (512 458-1000). See our web site: http://www.austintmsclinic.com

Because TMS is a new technology insurance companies do not automatically cover it, though many patients are getting reimbursement on a case-by-case basis. Depression itself is costly and usually affects everyone around the person who has it. If you are considering TMS you can be proud that you are willing to try something new, something that thousands of other people have tried and benefitted from. TMS can be a valuable investment in your health and well-being. For more information click here.

Integrative Psychiatry -- A broad look at nutrition, exercise, hormones, neurotransmitter levels, gastrointestinal function, and environmental exposure, also known as "functional medicine." Learn more at: What Is Functional Medicine?

A unique aspect of our practice is the use use of specialized tests to help diagnose and manage “treatment-resistant depression” and other chronic illness.

One such test is the referenced electroencephologram, or rEEG®, which uses the data from the common EEG (ordinarily used to look for epilepsy and other neurological diseases) to make a statistical prediction about the psychiatric medications most helpful for an individual patient. See more at CNS Response.

Other helpful tools are tests for neurotransmitters (brain signaling chemicals), gastrointestinal dysfunction, nutrients, allergies, infectious diseases, environmental toxins, and hormones. We do our best to use top-notch labs -- and ones that work with insurance billing -- to make the most of every dollar you spend on your health care. Visit NeuroScience and Genova Diagnostics to see more.